RSPCA calls for support in Oxfordshire this Christmas

The charity is encouraging people to get behind its Join The Christmas Rescue campaign, supporting the rescue teams helping animals in need.

The campaign comes after a 30 per cent increase in pet abandonment in three years.

The RSPCA is hoping to raise awareness of the many ways people can help, from volunteering, donating, sharing skills, campaigning, providing goods or food, to taking part in or organising an event.

The charity rehomes, rescues, and cares for animals (Image: Brett Harkness) Another way people can support the charity is by fostering animals.

Foster carers provide temporary homes for vulnerable animals who may not be ready for a new permanent home.

Fostering helps animals to recover from neglect, abuse, illness, or injury and is often the first step in finding a new, loving forever home.

The RSPCA's work includes the rescue, rehabilitation, rehoming, and release of animals in need.

People can give their support by donating, helping rescue teams to reach the thousands of animals needing assistance.

The donation could also help the RSPCA to continue its work of educating and inspiring people to act on behalf of animals.

People can support the charity by buying from its charity shops (Image: RSPCA) Donating through payroll is also an option, which is a simple way to make regular, tax-free donations to the RSPCA straight from your salary.

The charity is also asking supporters to think about rehoming an animal this Christmas.

With the rise in abandonment rates and slower rehoming rates due to the cost of living crisis, the charity is urging anyone thinking of adding an animal to their family to consider rescue.

Potential adopters can refine their search on the Find-A-Pet section of the RSPCA website to match their preferences.

The RSPCA is also asking people to think about volunteering their time.

People can support the RSPCA by fundraising (Image: RSPCA) There are numerous volunteer roles available, from animal care roles in centres and hospitals to field-based roles within the inspectorate and education.

Digital and professional roles are also available for those who might not have as much time or would like to offer their skills.

People can also help the RSPCA by sharing social media posts.

This helps to raise awareness of campaigns and provides a chance to amplify the voice of animals in need.

Buying gifts from the RSPCA digital shop supports the charity and helps animals.

People can also help by donating items on RSPCA centres’ Amazon Wish lists.

Each centre has a specific list showing exactly what is needed.

People can support one of the charity's branches by donating unwanted items, which generates money for running local rescue centres and animal welfare schemes.